The Toyota Prius c hybrid is available in four grades, ranging from $18,950 to $23,230

At the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) last month, Toyota proudly unveiled its new 2012 Prius c hybrid. The automaker boasted that the latest Prius member would be both fuel efficient and affordable, and today, the actual price figures have been released.

The starting manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2012 Prius c hybrid is $18,950. However, the Prius c will be available in four grades, offering more features the higher the grade. The Prius c One has an MSRP of $18,950, while the Prius c Two is priced at $19,900, the Prius c Three is priced at $ 21,635 and the Prius c Four is priced at $23,230.

The Toyota Prius c One offers the basics like remote keyless entry, automatic climate control and a steering wheel with controls such as Bluetooth, audio and other options. Upgrading to the Prius c Two gets you a six-speaker audio system, a center console with armrest and storage, cruise control, engine immobilizer, a cargo area tonneau cover and a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat.

For those willing to bump up to the Prius c Three, drivers receive a plethora of technology for both entertainment and information such as a 6.1-inch touchscreen, Sirius XM Satellite Radio capability, HD Radio with iTunes Tagging, a Display Audio system with Navigation and Entune, advanced voice recognition, and a USB port with iPod connectivity. The Three also allows drivers to add 15-inch alloy wheels for an extra $390 and a power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade for an extra $850.

The crème de la crème of the Prius c hybrids is the Four, with added 15-inch, 8-spoke alloy wheels, color-keyed heated power outside mirrors with turn signals, integrated fog lamps, and Softex-trimmed heated front seats. Prius c Four drivers can also choose to add a power tilt/slide moonroof with sliding shade for an extra $850, a 16-inch, 8-spoke alloy wheel package with P195/50R16 tires for an extra $300, or a 16-inch alloy wheel package that includes P195/50R16 tires and the moonroof with sliding sunshade for an extra $1,150.

"It's sized, priced, styled and packaged to appeal to young buyers on a budget who, until now, have probably found a hybrid experience out of reach," said Jim Lentz, Toyota USA president and CEO. "That's why we view the Prius as a gateway vehicle and a key component of our Prius strategy."

quote: I never ONCE called the Volt garbage or said it was low quality or a poor value.

Really? I am pretty sure poor value is the fulcrum of your argument. I'd also think hard about your 4 years of posting.

quote: But we know now that gas prices hurt SUV sales, NOT media coverage.

No... the hysteria that media induced over the raise in gas prices definitely played a role in the plunge in SUV sales. The media was -praising- people who took 10K+ losses to get into B/C segment cars. Shear idiocy. SUVs sales have rebounded despite the poor economy and consistently high gas prices. Hmmm...

quote: Ah I knew it. That's your angle.

And whats the angle of those that randomly bring up the Volt? Just curious.

Lots of posting arguing about the value of the Volt.. Guys, or specifically, Keeir. The market hath spoken. Demand was expected by GM to be weak; it ended up being even weaker, and getting even weaker still. This is undisputed fact. Argue all you want, people, for whatever personal reasons they have, have shunned it. Case closed. Trying to talk about TCO will not boost its past sales figures; the ultimate arbiter is the market and the verdict is already in.